University of St. Francis to participate in Illinois Library Leadership Initiative
University of St. Francis Assistant Director for Library Services Terrance Cottrell, is one of 30 Illinois librarians selected to participate in Synergy: The Illinois Library Leadership Initiative, a unique yearlong program designed to develop future leaders in the library professions and in the Illinois community.
The group of 30 librarians will attend three sessions and work in a unique environment with other developing leaders, experienced Illinois library leaders and nationally recognized speakers. The goal of the program is for each individual to develop leadership skills that can be applied in local, state and global arenas. Studies indicate that nearly half of all current librarians nationwide will move toward retirement during the next 10 years. The Illinois State Library and the Illinois Library Association sponsor the seminars.
"Synergy participants will be exposed to new strategies and new ways of thinking about the future of the library profession. We must be proactive and seek out new library leaders and keep our libraries growing and vibrant in the coming years," said Illinois State Library Director Anne Craig. "I am confident that Terry and our other Synergy participants will help us chart a course for the future that encourages citizens to enter the library profession and become library leaders, while maintaining our libraries as cornerstones of our communities."
The University of St. Francis in Joliet serves 4,100 students nationwide with more than 60 areas of undergraduate study in the areas of arts and sciences, business, education, nursing and allied health and social work. Degree completion and graduate programs are also offered.